Rangers striker Youssef Chermiti has dismissed speculation linking him with a move to Lyon, insisting he is fully focused on his career at Ibrox and harbours a dream of representing Portugal's senior national team.
Chermiti Happy at Ibrox Amid Lyon Interest
The 22-year-old Portuguese forward, who joined Rangers for £8.5 million last summer, has been linked with a big-money move to Ligue 1 side Lyon. According to Record Sport, Lyon coach Paulo Fonseca urged the club to open talks with Rangers, but negotiations stalled after the French side valued Chermiti at no more than £20 million. Rangers chairman Andrew Cavenagh is believed to hold out for a higher fee, and no further contact has been made.
Chermiti, however, is paying no attention to the transfer gossip. He said: "I'm very happy here. I like Glasgow, I like the club and everyone likes me as well. I think everyone is just trying to help me with my development. It is not a distraction for me, to be honest. I haven't heard anything, I don't hear any noise from outside the club. I leave that with my agent and my family. I'm just focused on this season and on Rangers. I feel very good in the city. Even my family is happy."
Strong Finish to Debut Season
After a slow start in Glasgow, Chermiti finished the season strongly, contributing 15 goals across all competitions. His form attracted the attention of Lyon, but the striker remains committed to Rangers. He believes there is more to come from him and is targeting a place in Jorge Jesus' Portugal senior squad.
"Yes, 100 per cent there is more to come from me," he declared. "I'm trying to get better every day. I think my target is, as I said in a few interviews before, I want to get into the national team. That's my dream."
Rangers Determined to Keep Key Player
Rangers are determined to keep their £8 million man, with chairman Cavenagh standing firm on his valuation. The club sees Chermiti as a key part of their plans for the upcoming season, and the player's contentment in Glasgow strengthens their position.
Chermiti's focus remains on his development at Rangers, and he is eager to build on his debut season. With the backing of the club and his family, he is confident of achieving his goals both at club level and internationally.
